Language within original records
Some records held by the Highland Archive Service (HAS) contain distressing content, including historic and offensive language. To ensure the integrity of these records, HAS cannot and will not alter, edit or modify original documents as these records represent the opinions and actions of their creators. By providing access to these records within our searchrooms, we recognise that archives can play a vital role in acknowledging the responsibility of those creators and in helping us learn from the past.
Language within our catalogues
We are working to address discriminatory language within our catalogues, and to identify where omissions and generalisations have obscured or misrepresented the communities we serve. We will review the language and, as appropriate, update it in a way that balances preservation of the original context with our ongoing commitment to describing materials with respectful and inclusive language.
Our work is committed towards dismantling exclusionary past practice and ensuring that inclusive working practices are adopted.
If you encounter records with inappropriate language or content that you think HAS should review, please contact us at [email protected]
